Senegal’s U20 national team secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Sierra Leone in the final of the UFOA/A U20 Tournament, held at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Monrovia. The win marks a successful title defense for the Lion Cubs, following their triumph over Gambia two years ago.
The Senegalese side wasted no time asserting their dominance in the match, with much of the action unfolding in the first half.
Under the leadership of coach Serigne Saliou Dia and spearheaded by a standout performance from Ibrahima Dieng, Senegal comfortably controlled proceedings and left Sierra Leone struggling to find their footing.
The breakthrough came just 13 minutes into the match.
Cheikh Tidiane Thiam, seizing on an error from a Sierra Leonean defender, unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area.
His effort sailed past the goalkeeper to give Senegal an early 1-0 lead, setting the tone for the rest of the game.
With the momentum firmly in their favor, the Lion Cubs continued to press, creating several more opportunities to extend their lead.
𝙁𝙄𝙉 𝘿𝙀 𝙈𝘼𝙏𝘾𝙃 | Le Sénégal s’impose 0-2 contre la Sierra Leone et remporte le tournoi UFOAA U20 2024. Nos lionceaux conservent leur titre. 🎉🏆🇸🇳💪 pic.twitter.com/s0lFPsQtgn
— Equipe du Sénégal (@GaindeYi) September 28, 2024
Though the Sierra Leone defense managed to hold them off for a brief period, it was only a matter of time before Senegal struck again.
Just 11 minutes after the opening goal, Ibrahima Dieng produced a moment of magic that would seal the win for his side.
Spotting the Sierra Leone goalkeeper off his line from within his own half, Dieng took a speculative shot from near the center circle.
His audacious effort flew over the stranded goalkeeper and into the net, doubling Senegal’s advantage with a stunning long-range goal in the 24th minute.
The sensational strike from Dieng effectively put the game beyond Sierra Leone’s reach.
While the second half saw fewer chances and less of the first-half intensity, Senegal remained in control, managing their two-goal lead with composure and tactical discipline.
Sierra Leone, despite their efforts, could not find a way back into the game.
Their attack was stifled by Senegal’s organized defense, and they struggled to create any meaningful threats to claw their way back into the contest.
As the final whistle blew, the young Senegalese team celebrated their well-earned victory, retaining the UFOA/A title and solidifying their place as one of the top teams in West African youth football.
The win also serves as a strong boost for the team as they now set their sights on the upcoming Africa U20 Cup of Nations (AFCON), where they will hope to continue their winning momentum.
For Ibrahima Dieng, the final was a personal triumph as much as it was for the team.
His stunning goal not only secured the win but also underscored his growing reputation as a key player for Senegal’s next generation.
As the team moves forward, Dieng’s leadership and flair will likely be crucial in their quest for further success on the continental stage.
23’ | 𝘼𝙇𝙀𝙍𝙏𝙀 𝘾𝙃𝙀𝙁-𝘿’Œ𝙐𝙑𝙍𝙀 – Ibrahima Dieng marque depuis sa moitié de terrain et permet au Senegal de faire le break. Quel but splendide !!
Sierra Leone (0-2) Sénégal pic.twitter.com/HNdrYthaty
— Equipe du Sénégal (@GaindeYi) September 28, 2024
